Chicago continues to add wonderful hotels at a dizzying place and the Loews Chicago is certainly one of the finest new arrivals to this cornucopia of hospitality. With its glassy surfaces and architecture reminiscent of Walter Gropius’s Tribune Tower competition the building sets a wonderful contemporary tone for a weekend of play or rest.

As the weather shifts, it's time to refresh and rejuvenate our skin as we prepare for colder, harsher winter weather. Here are three options blending science and nature to get your skin in tip-top shape at Chicago's best spas and beauty boutiques.

Ahhh . . . summer in Chicago, enjoy it while you can! It's time to dress up in your sweetest sundress and meet up with friends at a rooftop bar, hit Oak Street Beach in your teeny-weeny yellow polka-dot bikini and put your best face forward as you enjoy all the fun festivals, concerts and events left on the summertime menu. Get your ultimate summer glow on with these summer-focused treatments at five of Chicago's best spas.

As if the West Loop could possibly get any hipper, the arrival of the Midwest's first Ace Hotel offers a much-needed new hotel option to compete with Soho House in the city's dining mecca. Here's what you can look forward to when you check in:

When it comes to our family dog, Gizmo, sometimes we wonder who rescued whom. Saved from an unhealthy living situation by a local dog rescue organization, he arrived at our doorstep five years ago. Timid and sad at first, he fast became a beloved member of our family. He's our No. 1 squirrel protector and our best walking buddy, and he's always there to offer a warm cuddle and unconditional love. So naturally our family has been delighted to discover two amazing Chicago brunch venues—and even a luxe hotel—that welcome humans and their animal friends with open arms!

As you stroll through the Gold Coast looking through the haute couture in the Oak Street boutiques, you might think “Wow, I’d like to stay awhile and explore the neighborhood.” It’s a capital idea, and the Hotel Indigo Downtown/Gold Coast(1244 N. Dearborn Parkway) is the perfect place to park your bags and put your feet up.

Traveling moms and dads know that a good hotel swimming pool is key to a fun family vacation. Forget seeing all the sights in town: as far as kids are concerned, the hotel pool is where all the fun is! Here are our picks for Chicago's best (kid-friendly!) hotel pools.